Oral herpes involves oropharyngeal herpes, stomatitis (inflammation of mouth), herpes labialis (involvement of the lips) and gingivitis (inflammation of gums).
An oropharyngeal herpes is a lesion or sore spot on the oropharynx, or the back of the mouth. This includes sores on the upper throat, tonsils, soft palate, and base of the tongue.
Stomatitis (inflammation of mouth):
Stomatitis is an inflammation of the mucous lining of any of the structures in the mouth, which may involve the cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, and roof or floor of the mouth.
The inflammation can be caused by conditions in the mouth itself, such as poor oral hygiene, poorly fitted dentures, or from mouth burns from hot food or drinks, or by conditions that affect the entire body, such as medications, allergic reactions, or infections. A form of stomatitis known as stomatitis nicotina can be caused by smoking cigars, cigarettes, and pipes, and is characterized by small red bumps on the roof of the mouth. When it also involves an inflammation of the gingiva, it is called gingivostomatitis.
Herpes labialis (involvement of the lips):
Herpes labialis is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, characterized by an eruption of small and usually painful blisters on the lips, mouth, or the skin around the mouth. These blisters are commonly called cold sores or fever blisters.
Gingivitis (inflamation of the gums):
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums (gingiva) around the teeth. Gingivitis may be caused by a build up of plaque and tartar due to improper cleaning of teeth, or by injury to the gums from over-vigorous brushing. The condition is generally reversible. Brushing teeth thoroughly, but gently, with toothpaste and flossing with dental floss are the best ways to prevent gingivitis. However, when caused due to deficiencies of vitamins such as Vitamins B and C, the required vitamins must be provided. Gingivitis caused by the herpes virus doesn't respond to normal treatment protocols and requires specific therapy.
Oral herpes, also called cold sores or fever blisters, is a painful infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV 1). Oral herpes most often occurs on the lips, nose, and the surrounding areas. The type of herpes which typically infects the genital area is called herpes simplex 2, and is very similar to oral herpes. Oral herpes can also be transmitted to the genitals through oral sex.
Oral herpes (cold sores) are highly contagious when a flare up is present, and can be contagious even when a herpes lesion is not visible. This is called viral shedding. Children often become infected with the herpes virus by contact with parents, siblings, or other close relatives who have a herpes lesion on or around their mouth.
Therefore, learning about the herpes virus is very important, whether or not you have been diagnosed with the herpes virus. On this page you will find information regarding herpes and cold sores.
Initially, an oral herpes outbreak may appear as an irritated area. This can be accompanied by burning, itching, or tingling in the region where the herpes outbreak will eventually appear. When left untreated, the appearance of a cold sore, or a cluster of very small fluid filled blisters, is usually what occurs next during an oral herpes flare up.
Ninety percent of all the people will have at least one herpes outbreak in their lives. Some children who are affected with cold sores may become seriously ill. However, after the first infection, many people develop antibodies and never have another oral herpes outbreak. About 40% of American adults, however, have repeated oral herpes outbreaks.
Herpes lesions around the mouth are usually transmitted by such forms of contact as kissing an infected person or sharing eating utensils, towels, or razors.
A child can spread the herpes virus by rubbing his or her cold sore and then touching other children.
Most people infected with the herpes virus became infected before they were 10 years old.
The herpes virus is highly contagious. Anyone experiencing symptoms of a cold sore or herpes lesion must be very cautious when being intimate with another person. Those who have symptoms of herpes, either on their face or in the genitals, should refrain from contact with another person to help avoid transmission of herpes. If the herpes virus has been transmitted, the infection is permanent.
About the Author
As a part of Biogetica.com, Dr.Prasad a homeopath helped to formulate medications for holistic health care providing online consultation for treatment of Oral Herpes,Genital herpes,HPV,Hepatitis,etc, offering a mélange of products inclusive of auxiliary & ancillary therapies.